View report page

45
should be treated, with a view to cure ; for they
say that in its early stage it is certainly under control,
and even when the symptoms are alarmingly
serious, the case is not to be regarded as hopeless.
The practice which has been found most successful
is that of supporting the vital powers, and favouring
the elimination of the poison—a warm stable, with
good ventilation, and nourishing drinks, are the
first among the palliative remedies. Dry foods are
especially to be avoided, for after death the first
stomach is always found to be gorged with them.
The stimulants which are used are diluted alcoholic
drinks, and the preparations of ether and ammonia.
In addition to this, the action of the skin should
be promoted by warmth, by brisk rubbing, and by
the use of mild diaphoretics. It is further observed,
that as the bowels in the early stage of the disorder
are somewhat constipated, a gentle laxative, as
sulphur or linseed oil, may be advantageously
given ; and for the subsequent diarrhoea, the best
remedy is chalk and opium. Lastly, when the
animal shows a desire for food, it should be
cautiously fed on easily digestible substances, as
boiled carrots, or turnips, or meal. These are the
suggestions of rational medicine; and they may be
well called expectant remedies, for they do not aim
at a specific cure, but merely at the support of
nature.